Devices, methods, and systems for humidified containment

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods that may be used to store and protect cigars and other items. In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods may be used to store cigars and other items in a humidity controlled environment. In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods may be used to store cigars and other items in a temperature controlled environment.

If an Application Data Sheet (ADS) has been filed on the filing date ofthis application, it is incorporated by reference herein. Anyapplications claimed on the ADS for priority under 35 U.S.C. §§119, 120,121, or 365(c), and any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent,etc. applications of such applications, are also incorporated byreference, including any priority claims made in those applications andany material incorporated by reference, to the extent such subjectmatter is not inconsistent herewith.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of the earliest availableeffective filing date(s) from the following listed application(s) (the“Priority applications”), if any, listed below (e.g., claims earliestavailable priority dates for other than provisional patent applicationsor claims benefits under 35 USC §119(e) for provisional patentapplications, for any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent,etc. applications of the Priority application(s)). In addition, thepresent application is related to the “Related applications,” if any,listed below.

PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/180,846, entitledDEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS FOR HUMIDIFIED CONTAINMENT, naming WayneTracy DeWitt, Timothy Fred Manry II, and Glenn Junya Sumida asinventors, filed 17 Jun. 2015.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/180,846, entitledDEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS FOR HUMIDIFIED CONTAINMENT, naming WayneTracy DeWitt, Timothy Fred Manry II, and Glenn Junya Sumida asinventors, filed 17 Jun. 2015.

If the listings of applications provided above are inconsistent with thelistings provided via an ADS, it is the intent of the Applicant to claimpriority to each application that appears in the Priority applicationssection of the ADS and to each application that appears in the Priorityapplications section of this application.

All subject matter of the Priority applications and the Relatedapplications and of any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent,etc. applications of the Priority applications and the Relatedapplications, including any priority claims, is incorporated herein byreference to the extent such subject matter is not inconsistentherewith.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a device includes, but is not limited to, a mainbody housing including a hollow interior portion, an upper portion, alower portion, and an open upper end; at least one top plate operablycoupled to the main body housing within the upper hollow interiorportion of the main body housing, the at least one top plate includingat least one sleeve aperture disposed therein configured to accept atleast one sleeve and at least one rod aperture disposed thereinconfigured for passage of at least one lift rod therethrough; at leastone sleeve operably coupled to the top plate; at least one lift platecontained within the hollow interior portion of the main body housingand configured to be moveable within the hollow interior portion of themain body housing, the at least one lift plate including at least onerod aperture disposed therein configured for passage of at least one rodsupport base therethrough; and at least one support rod assemblyincluding a rod support base and a lift rod in extendible connectionwith the rod support base positioned within the hollow portion of themain body housing, the rod support base operably coupled to the lowerportion of the main body housing and the at least one lift rod operablycoupled to the at least one moveable lift plate.

In some embodiments, a device includes, but is not limited to, a mainbody housing including a hollow interior portion, an upper portion, alower portion, an open upper end, and an open lower end; at least onetop plate operably coupled to the main body housing within the upperhollow interior portion of the main body housing, the at least one topplate including at least one sleeve aperture disposed therein configuredto accept at least one sleeve and at least one rod aperture disposedtherein configured for passage of at least one lift rod therethrough; atleast one sleeve that includes a lower portion configured to passthrough the at least one sleeve aperture and a flanged upper portionconfigured to operably couple the at least one sleeve to the top plate;at least one lift plate contained within the hollow interior portion ofthe main body housing and configured to be moveable within the hollowinterior portion of the main body housing, the at least one lift plateincluding at least one rod aperture disposed therein configured forpassage of at least one rod support base therethrough; at least one rodmount plate operably coupled to the main body housing within the hollowlower portion of the main body housing; at least one support rodassembly including a rod support base and a lift rod in extendibleconnection with the rod support base positioned within the hollowportion of the main body housing, the rod support base operably coupledto the at least one rod mount plate and the at least one lift rodoperably coupled to the at least one moveable lift plate; at least onetop cap configured to operably couple with the upper portion of the mainbody housing and substantially seal the open upper end of the main bodyhousing; and at least one bottom cap configured to operably couple withthe lower portion of the main body housing and substantially seal theopen lower end of the main body housing.

In some embodiments, a device includes, but is not limited to, a mainbody housing including a hollow interior portion, an upper portion, alower portion, an open upper end, and an open lower end; at least onetop plate operably coupled to the main body housing within the upperhollow interior portion of the main body housing, the at least one topplate including at least one sleeve aperture disposed therein configuredto accept at least one sleeve and at least one rod aperture disposedtherein configured for passage of at least one lift rod therethrough; atleast one sleeve that includes a lower portion configured to passthrough the at least one sleeve aperture and a flanged upper portionconfigured to operably couple the at least one sleeve to the top plate;at least one lift plate contained within the hollow interior portion ofthe main body housing and configured to be moveable within the hollowinterior portion of the main body housing, the at least one lift plateincluding at least one rod aperture disposed therein configured forpassage of at least one rod support base therethrough; at least one rodmount plate operably coupled to the main body housing within the hollowlower portion of the main body housing; at least one support rodassembly including a rod support base and a lift rod in extendibleconnection with the rod support base positioned within the hollowportion of the main body housing, the rod support base operably coupledto the at least one rod mount plate and the at least one lift rodoperably coupled to the at least one moveable lift plate; at least onetop cap configured to operably couple with the upper portion of the mainbody housing and substantially seal the open upper end of the main bodyhousing; at least one bottom cap configured to operably couple with thelower portion of the main body housing and substantially seal the openlower end of the main body housing; and at least locking mechanismconfigured to control access to the interior portion of the main bodyhousing.

In one or more various aspects, means include but are not limited tocircuitry and/or programming for effecting the herein referencedfunctional aspects; the circuitry and/or programming can includenumerous combinations of hardware, software, and/or firmware, actingalone or in conjunction with each other to effect the herein referencedfunctional aspects depending upon the design choices of the systemdesigner. For example in some embodiments, means may include hardwareconfigured to effect the herein referenced functional aspects. In someembodiments, means may include firmware configured to effect the hereinreferenced functional aspects. In some embodiments, means may includehardware acting in conjunction with firmware configured to effect theherein referenced functional aspects. In some embodiments, means mayinclude hardware acting in conjunction with software configured toeffect the herein referenced functional aspects. Accordingly, means mayinclude numerous combinations of hardware, firmware, and software. Inaddition to the foregoing, other system aspects means are described inthe claims, drawings, and/or text forming a part of the presentdisclosure.

In one or more various aspects, related systems include but are notlimited to circuitry and/or programming for effecting theherein-referenced method aspects; the circuitry and/or programming caninclude numerous combinations of hardware, software, and/or firmware,acting alone or in conjunction with each other to effect the hereinreferenced functional aspects depending upon the design choices of thesystem designer. For example in some embodiments, circuitry may includehardware configured to effect the herein referenced functional aspects.In some embodiments, circuitry may include hardware configured to act inconjunction with firmware to effect the herein referenced functionalaspects. In some embodiments, circuitry may include hardware configuredto act in conjunction with software to effect the herein referencedfunctional aspects. In addition to the foregoing, other system aspectsare described in the claims, drawings, and/or text forming a part of thepresent application.

The foregoing is a summary and thus may contain simplifications,generalizations, inclusions, and/or omissions of detail; consequently,those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary isillustrative only and is NOT intended to be in any way limiting. Otheraspects, features, and advantages of the devices and/or processes and/orother subject matter described herein will become apparent in theteachings set forth herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective side view of an example device in whichembodiments may be implemented.

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an example device inwhich embodiments may be implemented.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an exampledevice in which embodiments may be implemented.

FIG. 4 illustrates an expanded side view of a portion of an exampledevice in which embodiments may be implemented.

FIG. 5 illustrates an expanded side view of a portion of an exampledevice in which embodiments may be implemented.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective side view of an embodiment of a top capthat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a center punch thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a centerpunch that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 7C illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a center punch thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a punch capthat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a center punchassociated with an embodiment of a punch cap that may be included in anembodiment of an example device.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of acenter punch associated with an embodiment of a punch cap that may beincluded in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a lift rodcap that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 12A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of asleeve that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 12B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a sleevethat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 12C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of asleeve with a sleeve insert included within the interior space of thesleeve that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an embodiment ofa rod gusset that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of a portion of an embodiment of a rodgusset that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 14A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a top plate that maybe included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 14B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a top platethat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 15A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a top plate supportthat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 15B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a top platesupport that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 16A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of alift rod that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an embodimentof a lift rod that may be included in an embodiment of an exampledevice.

FIG. 16C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of alift rod and a transversely mounted dowel that may be included in anembodiment of an example device.

FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a main bodyhousing that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 17B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a main bodyhousing that is associated with a top cap and a bottom cap that may beincluded in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 18A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of arod support base that may be included in an embodiment of an exampledevice.

FIG. 18B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rodsupport base that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 19A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a lift plate thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 19B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a lift platethat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rod bushingthat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 21A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a pin that may beincluded in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 21B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a pin thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 22A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a rod mount platethat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 22B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rod mountplate that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 23A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a bottom cover thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 23B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottomcover that may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom capthat may be included in an embodiment of an example device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings,similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless contextdictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in thedetailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting.Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made,without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matterpresented here.

Device 100

A device 100 is described herein. A device 100 may be configured innumerous ways. In some embodiments, a device 100 may be configured toprotect cigars from physical damage. In some embodiments, a device 100may be configured to protect cigars from physical damage occurringduring storage and/or transport. In some embodiments, a device 100 maybe configured to protect cigars from physical damage in an environmentthat provides a regulated level of humidity. In some embodiments, adevice 100 may be configured to protect cigars from physical damage inan environment that provides a regulated temperature level. In someembodiments, a device 100 may be configured to protect other items fromphysical. In some embodiments, a device 100 may be configured to protectother items from physical damage occurring during storage and/ortransport. In some embodiments, a device 100 may be configured toprotect other items from physical damage in an environment that providesa regulated level of humidity. In some embodiments, a device 100 may beconfigured to protect other items from physical damage in an environmentthat provides a regulated temperature level. Examples of other itemsinclude, but are not limited to, cigarillos, cigarettes, and the like.

In some embodiments, a device 100 may be configured to store one or morecigars or other items within an interior portion of the device 100 wherethe cigars or other items are held in a protected environment. In someembodiments, a device 100 may be configured to provide for presentationof one or more cigars or other items stored within an interior portionof the device 100 by activating an assembly that causes the one or morecigars or other items to be raised from within the device 100 to providefor access to the one or more cigars or other items.

The following general description of the components of device 100 ismade with particular reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 which may be used as anaid to understand how the various components of device 100 are arrangedand operably coupled. The components of device 100 and additionalembodiments of device 100 and components thereof are described ingreater detail below.

The device 100 includes a main body housing 102 in which variousembodiments of the device 100 may be implemented. In some embodiments, adevice 100 may include a main body housing 102 that is configured in asubstantially cylindrical shape having a substantially hollow interior.The main body housing 102 has an upper portion/end and a lowerportion/end. The upper and lower portion/end of the main body housing102 are referenced to a cylindrical main body housing 102 that ispositioned such that the height (length) of the main body housing 102 ismeasured on the vertical axis. In some embodiments, a main body housing102 may include an open end positioned at the upper end of the main bodyhousing 102. In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 may include anopen end positioned at the upper end of the main body housing 102 and anopen end positioned at the lower end of the main body housing 102.

In some embodiments, a device 100 may include a top cap 106 configuredto operably couple with the open end positioned at the upper end of themain body housing 102 and form a substantially air tight seal. In someembodiments, a device 100 may include a top cap 106 and a bottom cap 108that are configured to operably couple with the open upper end and theopen lower end of the main body housing 102 and form substantially airtight seals. In some embodiments, a top cap 106 and/or a bottom cap 108may include one or more bull-nose spring loaded pins that are configuredto secure the top cap 106 and/or the bottom cap 108 to the main bodyhousing 102.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 and/or a bottom cap 108 may beoperably coupled to a center punch 156. In some embodiments, the centerpunch 156 may be configured as a cigar punch. In some embodiments, thecenter punch 156 may be operably couplable to a center punch cap 140.

Device 100 may include an assembly that is contained within thesubstantially hollow interior portion of the main body housing 102. Theassembly may be configured to hold cigars or other items within theinterior of the main body housing 102 when the assembly is in a lowerposition. The assembly may also be configured to raise cigars or otheritems contained within the interior of the main body housing 102 topresent and provide access to the cigars or other items when theassembly is in a raised position.

The assembly may include a top plate 132 that is positionedsubstantially at a position at the upper portion of the main bodyhousing 102. The top plate 132 may include one or more sleeve apertures168 disposed therein that are configured to receive one or more sleeves104. A sleeve aperture 168 may be configured to allow a lower portion ofa sleeve 104 to pass through the sleeve aperture 168 and have the upperportion of the sleeve 104 operably couple to the top plate 132 and beheld in association with the top plate 132. This coupling may beachieved through various methods and configurations further describedherein. In some embodiments, the top plate 132 may include one or morerod apertures 166 that are configured to allow free passage of one ormore lift rods 122 therethrough. In some embodiments, such rod apertures166 may also be configured to allow passage of one or more dowels 148that are transversely coupled to a lift rod 122 to pass through the topplate 132 as further described herein.

In some embodiments, the assembly may include one or more top platesupports 130. In some embodiments, a top plate support 130 may beoperably coupled to a top plate 132. The top plate support 130 mayinclude one or more sleeve apertures 168 disposed therein that areconfigured to receive one or more sleeves 104 and allow the one or moresleeves 104 to pass through the top plate support 130. The sleeveapertures 168 disposed within the top plate support 130 may beconfigured to substantially align with the sleeve apertures 168 disposedwithin the top plate 132. Accordingly, the lower portion of a sleeve 104may pass through a sleeve aperture 168 disposed within a top plate 132and the top plate support 130 when the respective sleeve apertures 168are substantially aligned. In some embodiments, a top plate support 130may include one or more rod apertures 166. The one or more rod apertures166 disposed within the top plate support 130 may be configured to alignwith one or more rod apertures 166 disposed within a top plate 132.Accordingly, a lift rod 122 may freely pass through the rod apertures166 in the top plate 132 and the top plate support 130 when therespective rod apertures 166 are substantially aligned. In someembodiments, such rod apertures 166 may also be configured to allowpassage of one or more dowels 148 that are transversely coupled to alift rod 122 to pass through rod apertures 166 disposed within a topplate 132 and a top plate support 130 as further described herein. Thetop plate 132 and the top plate support 130 may be operably coupledthrough numerous methods and configurations further described below.

In some embodiments the assembly may include one or more sleeves 104. Insome embodiments, the one or more sleeves 104 are substantially tubularhaving a substantially hollow interior and configured to receive a cigaror other item and contain the cigar or other item in the substantiallyhollow portion of a sleeve 104. The one or more sleeves 104 areconfigured to be received by the one or more sleeve apertures 168disclosed within a top plate 132 and a top plate support 130 and beoperably coupled to the top plate 132.

In some embodiments, the assembly may include one or more rod gussets146. One or more rod gussets 146 may be configured to be operablyassociated with a top plate 132 and encircle one or more lift rods 122that pass through one or more rod apertures 166 disposed within a topplate 132 and the top plate support 130.

In some embodiments, the assembly may include one or more support rods110. In some embodiments, the assembly may include one or more supportrods 110 that include a rod support base 120 and an operably coupledlift rod 122 that are in telescoping communication with each other.Accordingly, due to the telescoping nature of the support rod 110, insome embodiments a support rod 110 may be in a compressed position andin some embodiments a support rod 110 be in an extended position.

In some embodiments, the lift rod 122 may include a lift rod recess 174that is aligned with the length of the lift rod 122 which is configuredto receive a rod support base 120 to provide for operable coupling ofthe lift rod 122 to the rod support base 120. In some embodiments, therod support base 120 may include a rod support base recess 176 that isaligned with the length of the rod support base 120 into which the liftrod 122 may be inserted to provide for operable coupling of the lift rod122 to the rod support base 120. In some embodiments, a rod support base120 may be operably coupled to a spring 144 that is configured tofacilitate telescopic movement of the lift rod 122 relative to the rodsupport base 120. In some embodiments, the rod support base 120 may beoperably coupled to a compression spring that facilitates telescopicmovement of the lift rod 122 relative to the rod support base 120. Insome embodiments, one or more support rods 110 may be configured tofreely travel through one or more rod apertures 166 disposed within atop plate 132. In some embodiments, the one or more support rods 110 maybe configured to freely travel through one or more rod apertures 166disposed within a top plate 132 that is operably coupled to a top platesupport 130.

In some embodiments, a lift rod 122 may include one or more transverseholes 172 (see e.g., FIGS. 16A-16C). In some embodiments, suchtransverse holes 172 may be positioned substantially at the top of liftrod 122. In some embodiments, such transverse holes 172 may bepositioned at numerous positions along the length of lift rod 122. Insome embodiments, such transverse holes 172 may be positionedsubstantially medially relative to the length of the lift rod 122.

In some embodiments, one or more dowels 148 may be positioned throughone or more transverse holes 172 such that a portion of each of the oneor more dowels 148 protrudes from each side of the lift rod 122 (seee.g., FIG. 16C). In some instances, such an arrangement of one or moredowels 148 with the support rod 110 may allow the support rod 110 to bemaintained in a compressed position within the assembly. For example, insome embodiments, a support rod 110 that is in an extended position maybe compressed such that one or more dowels 148 that are operably coupledto the top portion of a lift rod 122 pass through a rod aperture 166disposed within a top plate 132 and/or a top plate support 130 that isoperably coupled to the top plate 132. The lift rod 122 may then berotated such that the one or more dowels 148 engage the top plate 132and/or a top plate 132 that is operably coupled to a top plate support130 and lock the support rod 110 in a compressed position. In someinstances, such an arrangement of one or more dowels 148 with thesupport rod 110 may allow the support rod 110 to be maintained in anextended position. For example, in some embodiments, one or more dowels148 that are positioned along the length of the lift rod 122 may engagea top plate 132 and/or a top plate 132 that is operably coupled to a topplate support 130 to hold the lift rod 122 in an extended position. Insome embodiments, a lift rod 122 may be operably coupled with a lift rodcap 134. In some embodiments, the rod support base 120 may include a rodsupport base recess 176 that is aligned with the length of the rodsupport base 120 and configured to receive a pin 128.

In some embodiments, an assembly may include a lift plate 124 that isoperably coupled to one or more lift rods 122 and configured to travelvertically within the interior of the main body housing 102 of device100. For example, when a support rod 110 is in a compressed position thelift plate 124 will be positioned substantially near the bottom of themain body housing 102 of device 100. When the support rod 110 is in anextended position the lift plate 124 may be positioned at numerouspositions relative to the length of the main body housing 102. In someembodiments, the lift plate 124 may be positioned substantially mediallyrelative to the length of the main body housing 102. Accordingly, insome embodiments, a lift plate 124 may include one or more rod apertures166 that are configured to allow free passage of one or more rod supportbases 120 therethrough. A lift plate 124 may be operably coupled to alift rod 122 in numerous ways.

In some embodiments, the assembly may include a rod bushing 126 that maybe used to operably couple a lift plate 124 to a lift rod 122. Forexample, in some embodiments, a rod bushing 126 may include a tubularupper portion that includes a bushing recess 178 disposed therein thatis configured to receive and be operably coupled to a bottom portion ofa lift rod 122. In some embodiments, the rod bushing 126 may include abushing disk portion 180 that is configured to be operably coupled withthe lift plate 124. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the tubular upperportion of the rod bushing 126 may pass through the rod aperture 166disposed within the lift plate 124 and the bushing disk portion 180 ofthe rod bushing 126 may engage the bottom of the lift plate 124.Numerous methods may be used to operably couple a lift plate 124 and arod bushing 126. For example, in some embodiments, a lift plate 124 anda rod bushing 126 may be bolted together. In some embodiments, a spring144 may be contained within the bushing recess 178 disposed in thetubular portion of the rod bushing 126. The spring may 144 be configuredto facilitate telescoping motion of the lift rod 122 relative to the rodsupport base 120.

In some embodiments, an assembly may include a rod mount plate 136. Insome embodiments, an assembly may include a rod mount plate 136 that ispositioned substantially near the lower portion of the main body housing102 of device 100 below the lift plate 124. In some embodiments, anassembly may include a rod mount plate 136 that is operably coupled toone or more rod support bases 120. Numerous methods may be used tooperably couple a rod support base 120 and a rod mount plate 136. Forexample, in some embodiments, a pin 128 may be used to operably couple arod support base 120 and a rod mount plate 136.

In some embodiments, an assembly may include a bottom cover 138. In someembodiments, an assembly may include a bottom cover 138 that ispositioned substantially near the lower portion of the main body housing102 of device 100 below the rod mount plate 136. In some embodiments, anassembly may include a bottom cover 138 that is operably coupled to arod mount plate 136. Numerous methods may be used to operably couple abottom cover 138 to a rod mount plate 136. For example, in someembodiments, a bottom cover 138 and a rod mount plate 136 may be boltedtogether.

In some embodiments, a device may include a lighting unit that includesa light assembly 150. A light assembly 150 may be configured in numerousways. For example, in some embodiments, a light assembly 150 may beconfigured to outline one or more sleeves 104. In some embodiments, alight assembly 150 may be configured to outline the top portion of oneor more sleeves 104. In some embodiments, a light assembly 150 may beconfigured to illuminate the interior of device 100. In someembodiments, a light assembly 150 may be configured to emit light thatis directed away from device 100.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include numerous features. Forexample, in some embodiments, device 100 may include a center punch 156.In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or more time keepingdevices. In some embodiments, device 100 may include a rotating spindleto allow a top plate 132 to rotate. In some embodiments, device 100 mayinclude a humidification pack. In some embodiments, device 100 mayinclude a humidity insert that includes foam, beads, or other materialsthat affect humidity. In some embodiments, device 100 may include aspeaker (e.g., Bluetooth™ capable speaker). In some embodiments, device100 may include wireless communication capability (e.g., cellular,global positioning, Bluetooth™). In some embodiments, device 100 mayinclude location tracking and/or locating indicating capability. In someembodiments, device 100 may include location tracking and/or locationindicating capability to show the location or vicinity of similardevices 100. In some embodiments, device 100 may include a humiditytracking unit configured to determine humidity within device 100 andtransmit the information to a cellular telephone. In some embodiments,device 100 may include an indicator configured to show humidityconditions associated with device 100 (e.g., indicator of percenthumidity within device 100). In some embodiments, device 100 may includeone or more locks configured to control access to the interior of device100 (e.g., combination lock, biometric lock, keyed lock). In someembodiments, device 100 may include an insert for a flavoring agent(e.g., cognac, whiskey, rum, spirit, fruit flavoring agents, berryflavoring agents). In some embodiments, device 100 may be substantiallywaterproof (e.g., deny entry of water into the interior of device 100).In some embodiments, device 100 may float. In some embodiments, device100 may include insulation. In some embodiments, device 100 may includeone or more heating elements. In some embodiments, device 100 mayinclude one or more cooling elements. In some embodiments, device 100may be configured to maintain a thermostatically controlled environmentwithin the interior of device 100. In some embodiments, device 100 maybe configured to circulate air within the interior of device 100. Insome embodiments, device 100 may include one or more rubberized edgesand/or surfaces. In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or morereceivers. In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or moretransmitters. In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or moreprocessing components. In some embodiments, device 100 may include oneor more power sources. In some embodiments, device 100 may include oneor more batteries (e.g., enhanced battery system). In some embodiments,device 100 may be configured to respond to voice commands. In someembodiments, device 100 may include one or more alert systems (e.g., lowhumidity alert). In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or morelift mechanisms configured to facilitate motion of one or more liftplates. In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or more electricmotors configured to facilitate movement of one or more lift plates 124.In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or more piezoelectricmotors configured to facilitate movement of one or more lift plates 124.In some embodiments, device 100 may include an integrated lightermechanism. In some embodiments, device 100 may include an environmentalcontrol unit that is configured to monitor environmental conditionssurrounding device 100 and modify the temperature and/or humidity withindevice 100 in response to the surrounding conditions. In someembodiments, device 100 may include one or more perforated sleeves. Insome embodiments, device 100 may include one or more sensors configuredto detect humidity within device 100. In some embodiments, device 100may include one or more sensors configured to detect humidification packstatus. In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or moreindicators configured to indicate humidification pack status. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a cedar lining. In some embodiments,device 100 may include one or more replaceable cedar inserts.

Main Body Housing

Device 100 includes a main body housing 102. A main body housing 102 maybe configured in numerous ways. For example, in some embodiments, a mainbody housing 102 may be configured as a cylindrical body that includessubstantially hollow interior. The main body housing 102 may havenumerous types of cylindrical geometries. For example, in someembodiments, a main body housing 102 may be a circular cylinder. In someembodiments, a main body housing 102 may be a square cylinder. In someembodiments, a main body housing 102 may be a rectangular cylinder. Insome embodiments, a main body housing 102 may be an oval cylinder. Insome embodiments, a main body housing 102 may be a triangular cylinder.Examples of other cylindrical geometries include, but are not limitedto, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a decagon, aparallelogram, trapezoids, diamonds, and the like.

In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 may have two open ends(e.g., an open end on each end of a cylinder). In some embodiments, amain body housing 102 may have one open end and one closed end. In someembodiments, the interior of at least one open end portion of the mainbody housing 102 may be threaded. In some embodiments, the exterior ofat least one open end portion of the main body housing 102 may bethreaded.

In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 having two open ends may beconfigured to receive a top cap 106 and a bottom cap 108 into each ofthe open ends. In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 having oneopen end and a closed end may be configured to receive a top cap 106 ora bottom cap 108 into the open end.

In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 may include a hatch doortype mechanism to provide access to the interior of device 100. In someembodiments, such a hatch door type mechanism may be configured toprovide access to the interior of device 100 for insertion of one ormore humidification packs.

In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 may be associated with awood lining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of types of wood that may beassociated with a main body housing 102 include, but are not limited to,cedar, oak, birch, and the like.

Top Cap

Device 100 may include a top cap 106. A top cap 106 may be configured innumerous ways. A top cap 106 may be configured to be operably coupled toa main body housing 102 having a corresponding geometry. For example, insome embodiments, a top cap 106 may have a circular geometry and beconfigured for insertion into an open end portion of a main body housing102 having a corresponding circular geometry. In some embodiments, a topcap 106 may have a square geometry and be configured for insertion intoan open end portion of a main body housing 102 having a correspondingsquare geometry. In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include arecessed portion configured to receive an end portion of a main bodyhousing 102 having a corresponding geometry. For example, in someembodiments, a top cap 106 may include a recessed portion having asquare geometry that is configured to receive an end portion of a mainbody housing 102 having a corresponding square geometry into the top cap106. Accordingly, a top cap 106 may have numerous geometries and beconfigured to be operably coupled to an open end portion of a main bodyhousing 102 having a corresponding geometry.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may be configured to be operablycoupled with a main body housing 102 to form a substantially air tightseal between the top cap 106 and the main body housing 102. For example,in some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include a gasket that forms asubstantially air tight seal between the top cap 106 and a main bodyhousing 102 when the top cap 106 is inserted into an open end portion ofthe main body housing 102. In some embodiments, a top cap 106 mayinclude threads that form a substantially air tight seal between the topcap 106 and an open end portion of the main body housing 102 when thetop cap 106 is screwed into a corresponding threaded open end portion ofthe main body housing 102. In some embodiments, a top cap 106 mayinclude an operably coupled gasket within a recessed portion of the topcap 106 that forms a substantially air tight seal between the top cap106 and a main body housing 102 when an open end portion of the mainbody housing 102 is inserted into the recessed portion of the top cap106. In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include threads within arecessed portion of the top cap 106 that form a substantially air tightseal between the top cap 106 and an open end portion of a main bodyhousing 102 when a threaded end portion of the main body housing 102 isscrewed into the corresponding threaded recessed portion of the top cap106.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may be operably coupled to a mainbody housing 102 through a hinge that is configured to orient the topcap 106 and an open end of the main body housing 102 such that the topcap 106 may be pivoted on the hinge to allow a portion of the top cap106 to be inserted into the open end of the main body housing 102.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include one or more pins that areconfigured to couple the top cap 106 to a main body housing 102. Forexample, in some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include one or morespring loaded pins that serve to secure the top cap 106 to a main bodyhousing 102. In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include one or morebull-nose spring loaded pins that serve to secure the top cap 106 to amain body housing 102.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may be associated with a wood lining(e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of types of wood that may be associatedwith a top cap 106 include, but are not limited to, cedar, oak, birch,and the like.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may be coupled to a punch. In someembodiments, a top cap 106 may be coupled to a center punch 156. In someembodiments, such a punch may be operably coupled within a recessedportion of a top cap 106.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include an ignition flameproducing mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, a top cap 106 mayinclude a reservoir and a controllable valve that is configured todispense a flammable fluid and/or gas. In some embodiments, a top cap106 may include an ignition system that is configured to controllablyignite a flammable liquid and/or gas. In some embodiments, a top cap 106may include a reservoir and a controllable valve that is configured todispense a flammable fluid and/or gas upon activation of an ignitionsystem. A top cap 106 may include numerous types of ignition systems.Examples of such ignition systems include, but are not limited to, sparkproducing ignition systems, electrical ignition systems, and the like.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may be configured to accept a lighter158. For example, in some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include alighter storage compartment 154 that is configured to accept a lighter158. In some embodiments, such a compartment may be positioned within arecessed portion of a top cap 106.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include a reflective surface. Forexample, in some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include a mirror. Insome embodiments, such a reflective surface may be positioned within arecessed portion of a top cap 106.

In some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include one or more speakers. Forexample, in some embodiments, a top cap 106 may include a Bluetooth™speaker that is able to receive one or more signals from a remotedevice. Accordingly, in some embodiments, such a Bluetooth™ speaker maybe used to play music or other media received from a remote device.

Sleeve and Sleeve Insert

Device 100 may include one or more sleeves 104. A sleeve 104 may beconfigured in numerous ways. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may beconfigured to receive a cigar. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may beconfigured to receive a cigarette. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 maybe configured to receive a cigarillo. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104may be configured as a circular tube. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104may be configured as a square tube. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104may be configured as a hexagonal tube. Accordingly, in some embodiments,a sleeve 104 may have numerous geometric configurations. In someembodiments, a sleeve 104 may have two open ends. In some embodiments, asleeve 104 may have a flange on the top of the sleeve 104. Sleeves 104may have numerous dimensions. For example, sleeves 104 may be ofnumerous lengths. For example, in some embodiments, a sleeve 104 mayhave a length of 18 inches. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have alength of 12 inches. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have a lengththat is between 18 inches and 6 inches. Additional non-limiting examplesof such lengths include, but are not limited to, 18, 16, 14, 12, 10, 8,6, 4, and 2 inches. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have a lengththat is selected in accordance with the length of a cigar. For example,a sleeve 104 that is 6 inches in length may be selected for use with acigar that is 12 inches in length. Sleeves 104 may be of numerouswidths. For example, in some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have a widthof 2 inches. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have a width of 1inch. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have a width that is between2 inches and 0.5 inches. Additional non-limiting examples of such widthsinclude, but are not limited to, 2, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, and 0.25 inches. Insome embodiments, a sleeve 104 may have a width that is selected inaccordance with the width of a cigar. For example, a sleeve 104 having awidth that is 1.5 inches may be selected for use with a cigar having awidth of 1 inch. In some embodiments, device 100 may include sleeves 104having different lengths and/or widths. In some embodiments, a sleeve104 may be adjustable to alter the length and/or width on the sleeve.For example, in some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may be fabricated from aflexible material such that twisting one end of the sleeve 104 relativeto the other end of the sleeve 104 will cause the sleeve to becomeshorter and have a smaller diameter relative to the untwisted sleeve104. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may be fabricated from a flexiblematerial such that untwisting one end of the sleeve 104 relative to theother end of the sleeve 104 will cause the sleeve 104 to become longerand have a larger diameter relative to the untwisted sleeve 104. In someembodiments, a sleeve 104 may be perforated. In some embodiments, asleeve 104 may include a operably coupled center punch 156. In someembodiments, a sleeve 104 may include a cigar punch. For example, insome embodiments, a sleeve 104 may be configured as a tube having anopen end and a closed end with a cigar punch being positioned on theinterior of the sleeve 104 at the closed end of the sleeve 104. In someembodiments, a sleeve 104 may include a cigar punch that is positionedon the exterior of the sleeve 104. For example, in some embodiments, asleeve 104 may be configured as a tube having an open end and a closedend with a cigar punch being positioned on the exterior of the sleeve104 at the closed end of the sleeve 104.

Device 100 may include one or more sleeve inserts 160. In someembodiments, a sleeve insert 160 may be configured to be received by asleeve 104. For example, in some embodiments, a sleeve insert 160 may beinserted into a sleeve 104 to alter the length and/or width of the spacewithin the sleeve 104.

In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 and/or a sleeve insert 160 may beassociated with a wood lining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of typesof wood that may be associated with a sleeve 104 and/or sleeve insert160 include, but are not limited to, cedar, oak, birch, and the like.

Top Plate and Top Plate Support

Device 100 may include a top plate 132. Device 100 may include a topplate support 130. The top plate 132 and the top plate support 130 areconfigured to be contained within the substantially hollow interior ofthe main body housing 102 of device 100. A top plate 132 and top platesupport 130 may be configured in numerous ways. For example, in someembodiments, a top plate 132 may include one or more sleeve apertures168 disposed therein that are configured to receive one or more sleeves104. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a top plate 132 may be configuredto support one sleeve 104. In some embodiments, a top plate 132 may beconfigured to support more than one sleeve 104. For example, in somenon-limiting embodiments, a top plate 132 may be configured to supportbetween two and twenty sleeves 104. In some embodiments, a top plate 132may be configured to support six sleeves 104.

A top plate 132 and a top plate support 130 may have numerous geometricconfigurations. For example, in some embodiments, a top plate 132 may becircular. In some embodiments, a top plate 132 may be square. In someembodiments, a top plate 132 may be rectangular. In some embodiments, atop plate 132 may be an oval. In some embodiments, a top plate 132 maybe hexagonal. In some embodiments, a top plate 132 may be octagonal.Accordingly, in some embodiments, a top plate 132 and a top platesupport 130 may be configured in numerous geometric patterns.

A top plate 132 and top plate support 130 may include one or more rodapertures 166 disposed therein. In some embodiments, a rod aperture 166is positioned substantially in the center of the top plate 132 and thetop plate support 130 through which a support rod 110 may pass.Accordingly, the lift rod 122 portion of the support rod 110 may movefreely through the top plate 132 and/or top plate support 130. In someembodiments, a rod aperture 166 may be configured to allow passage ofone or more dowels 148 that are transversely mounted in a lift rod 122through the top plate 132 and/or a top plate 132 and top plate support130 (see e.g., FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 16C).

In some embodiments, a top plate 132 and a top plate support 130 may beoperably coupled. Numerous methods may be used to operably couple a topplate 132 and a top plate support 130. Examples of such methods include,but are not limited to, welding, press fitting, bolting, gluing, and thelike.

In some embodiments, a top plate 132 and/or a top plate support 130 maybe associated with a wood lining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples oftypes of wood that may be associated with a top plate 132 and/or a topplate support 132 include, but are not limited to, cedar, oak, birch,and the like.

Support Rod

Device 100 may include a support rod 110. In some embodiments, a supportrod 110 may include a rod support base 120 and an operably coupled liftrod 122 that are in telescoping communication with each other.Accordingly, in some embodiments, a support rod 110 may be used tovertically position an operably coupled lift plate 124 contained withina substantially hollow interior portion of a main body housing 102 ofdevice 100.

In some embodiments, a support rod 110 includes a mechanism thatprovides the telescoping function of the support rod 110. Numerousmechanisms may be used to provide the telescoping function of thesupport rod 110. In some embodiment, such a mechanism may be a manualmechanism wherein a user manually operates the drive mechanism. Forexample, in some embodiments, a rod support base 120 and a lift rod 122may be in threaded communication. Accordingly, in some embodiments, auser may turn a lift rod 122 to effect the telescoping function of thesupport rod 110. In some embodiments, such a mechanism is based on aspring 144 that is configured to facilitate the telescoping function ofthe support rod 110. In some embodiments, a support rod 110 may includea drive mechanism. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a lift plate 124that is operably coupled to a lift rod 122 may be raised and loweredthrough the action of an operably coupled drive mechanism. Numeroustypes of drive mechanisms may be used. In some embodiments, a drivemechanism may be electrical. For example, in some embodiments, athreaded lift rod 122 may be operably coupled to an electric motor(e.g., squiggle motor) that is configured to facilitate the telescopingfunction of the support rod 110. In some embodiments, a toothed lift rod122 may be operably coupled to an electrically driven cog that isconfigured to facilitate the telescoping function of the support rod110. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a drive mechanism may include abattery pack 164 to supply power to an electric motor. In someembodiments, a battery pack 164 may include a disposable battery. Insome embodiments, a battery pack 164 may include a rechargeable battery.In some embodiments, device 100 may include a battery life indicator.

In some embodiments, drive mechanisms may be user controlled through aswitch 116 or other such user interface. In some embodiments, the actionof a drive mechanism may be controlled automatically. For example, insome embodiments, a drive mechanism may be activated upon opening and/orremoval of a top cap 106 of device 100. Accordingly, upon opening and/orremoval of the top cap 106 from device 100, the drive mechanism may actto raise an operably coupled lift plate 124 that in turn lifts one ormore cigars, cigarillos, and/or cigarettes that are contained in one ormore sleeves 104 of device 100. In some embodiments, a drive mechanismmay be activated upon closing and/or replacing the top cap 106 of device100. Accordingly, upon closing and/or replacing the top cap 106 ofdevice 100, the drive mechanism may act to lower an operably coupledlift plate 124 that in turn lowers one or more cigars, cigarillos,and/or cigarettes that are contained in one or more sleeves 104 ofdevice 100.

Lift Plate

Device 100 may include a lift plate 124. A lift plate 124 is configuredto be contained within and move within a substantially hollow interiorportion of a main body housing 102 of device 100. In some embodiments, alift plate 124 is configured to lift cigars, cigarillos, and/orcigarettes contained within one or more sleeves 104. Accordingly, insome embodiments, a lift plate 124 is operably coupled to a support rod110 having a lift mechanism. In some embodiments, a lift plate 124 maybe perforated.

A lift plate 124 may have numerous geometric configurations. Forexample, in some embodiments, a lift plate 124 may be circular. In someembodiments, a lift plate 124 may be square. In some embodiments, a liftplate 124 may be rectangular. In some embodiments, a lift plate 124 maybe an oval. In some embodiments, a lift plate 124 may be hexagonal. Insome embodiments, a lift plate 124 may be octagonal. Accordingly, insome embodiments, a lift plate 124 may be configured in numerousgeometric patterns.

In some embodiments, a lift plate 124 may be associated with a woodlining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of types of wood that may beassociated with a lift plate 124 include, but are not limited to, cedar,oak, birch, and the like.

Rod Mount Plate

Device 100 may include a rod mount plate 136. A rod mount plate 136 isconfigured to be contained within a substantially hollow interiorportion of a main body housing 102 of device 100. In some embodiments, arod mount plate 136 may be operably coupled to a support rod 110. Insome embodiments, a rod mount plate 136 may be operably coupled to asupport rod 110 through a pin 128 that is operably coupled to a pin port182 within a rod mount plate 136.

A rod mount plate 136 may have numerous geometric configurations. Forexample, in some embodiments, a rod mount plate 136 may be circular. Insome embodiments, a rod mount plate 136 may be square. In someembodiments, a rod mount plate 136 may be rectangular. In someembodiments, a rod mount plate 136 may be an oval. In some embodiments,a rod mount plate 136 may be hexagonal. In some embodiments, a rod mountplate 136 may be octagonal. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a rodmount plate 136 may be configured in numerous geometric patterns.

In some embodiments, a rod mount plate may be associated with a woodlining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of types of wood that may beassociated with a rod mount plate 136 include, but are not limited to,cedar, oak, birch, and the like.

Bottom Cover

Device 100 may include a bottom cover 138. A bottom cover 138 isconfigured to be contained within a substantially hollow interiorportion of a main body housing 102 of device 100. In some embodiments, abottom cover 138 may be operably coupled to a rod mount plate 136. Insome embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may include an access aperture. Insome embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may include an access aperture thatis configured to be operably coupled to an access cover.

A bottom cover 138 may have numerous geometric configurations. Forexample, in some embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may be circular. Insome embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may be square. In some embodiments,a bottom cover 138 may be rectangular. In some embodiments, a bottomcover 138 may be an oval. In some embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may behexagonal. In some embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may be octagonal.Accordingly, in some embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may be configuredin numerous geometric patterns.

In some embodiments, a bottom cover 138 may be associated with a woodlining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of types of wood that may beassociated with a bottom cover 138 include, but are not limited to,cedar, oak, birch, and the like.

Bottom Cap

Device 100 may include a bottom cap 108. A bottom cap 108 may beconfigured in numerous ways. A bottom cap 108 may be configured to beoperably coupled to a main body housing 102 having a correspondinggeometry. For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may have acircular geometry and be configured for insertion into an open endportion of a main body housing 102 having a corresponding circulargeometry. In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may have a squaregeometry and be configured for insertion into an open end portion of amain body housing 102 having a corresponding square geometry. In someembodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a recessed portion configuredto receive an open end portion of a main body housing 102 into thebottom cap 108 having a corresponding geometry. For example, in someembodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a recessed portion have asquare geometry and be configured to receive an end portion of a mainbody housing 102 having a corresponding square geometry into the bottomcap 108. Accordingly, a bottom cap 108 may have numerous geometries andbe configured to be operably coupled to an open end portion of a mainbody housing 102 having a corresponding geometry.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may be configured to be operablycoupled with a main body housing 102 to form a substantially air tightseal between the bottom cap 108 and the main body housing 102. Forexample, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include an operablycoupled gasket that forms a substantially air tight seal between thebottom cap 108 and a main body housing 102 when the bottom cap 108 isinserted into an open end portion of the main body housing 102. In someembodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include threads that form asubstantially air tight seal between the bottom cap 108 and an open endportion of the main body housing 102 when the bottom cap 108 is screwedinto a corresponding threaded open end portion of the main body housing102. In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include an operablycoupled gasket within a recessed portion of the bottom cap 108 thatforms a substantially air tight seal between the bottom cap 108 and amain body housing 102 when an open end portion of the main body housing102 is inserted into the recessed portion of the bottom cap 108. In someembodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include threads within a recessedportion of the bottom cap 108 that form a substantially air tight sealbetween the bottom cap 108 and an open end portion of a main bodyhousing 102 when a threaded end portion of the main body housing 102 isscrewed into the corresponding threaded recessed portion of the bottomcap 108.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may be operably coupled to a mainbody housing 102 through a hinge that is configured to orient the bottomcap 108 and an open end of the main body housing 102 such that thebottom cap 108 may be pivoted on the hinge to allow a portion of thebottom cap 108 to be inserted into the open end of the main body housing102.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include one or more pins thatare configured to couple the bottom cap 108 to a main body housing 102.For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include one ormore spring loaded pins that serve to secure the bottom cap 108 to amain body housing 102. In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may includeone or more bull-nose spring loaded pins that serve to secure the bottomcap 108 to a main body housing 102.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a hatch door typemechanism to provide access to the interior of device 100. In someembodiments, such a hatch door type mechanism may be configured toprovide access to the interior of device 100 for insertion of one ormore humidification packs.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may be coupled to a punch. In someembodiments, a bottom cap 108 may be coupled to a center punch 156.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a flame producingmechanism. For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 mayinclude a reservoir and a controllable valve that is configured todispense a flammable fluid and/or gas. In some embodiments, a bottom cap108 may include an ignition system that is configured to controllablyignite a flammable liquid and/or gas. In some embodiments, a bottom cap108 may include a reservoir and a controllable valve that is configuredto dispense a flammable fluid and/or gas upon activation of an ignitionsystem. A bottom cap 108 may include numerous types of ignition systems.Examples of such ignition systems include, but are not limited to, sparkproducing ignition systems, electrical ignition systems, and the like.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may be configured to accept alighter 158. For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 mayinclude a lighter storage compartment 154.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a reflective surface.For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a mirror.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include a humidification packcompartment 112 that is configured to accept a humidification pack.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include one or more speakers.For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include aBluetooth™ speaker that is able to receive one or more signals from aremote device. Accordingly, in some embodiments, such a Bluetooth™speaker may be used to play music or other media received from a remotedevice.

In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may be associated with a woodlining (e.g., a wood veneer). Examples of types of wood that may beassociated with a bottom cap 108 include, but are not limited to, cedar,oak, birch, and the like.

Lighting Unit

Device 100 may include a lighting unit. Numerous types of lighting unitsmay be included within device 100. In some embodiments, a lighting unitmay include a light assembly 158. A lighting unit may include numeroustypes of components. For example, in some embodiments, a lighting unitmay include one or more light-emitting diodes. In some embodiments, alighting unit may include electroluminescent wire. In some embodiments,a lighting unit may be configured to emit one or more colors of light.In some embodiments, a lighting unit may be configured to change thecolor of light emitted at one or more times. In some embodiments, alighting unit may include one or more batteries. In some embodiments, alighting unit may include one or more disposable batteries. In someembodiments, a lighting unit may include one or more rechargeablebatteries. In some embodiments, a lighting unit may include one or morerechargeable batteries that are operably coupled to a photovoltaic cell.In some embodiments, a lighting unit may include one or more thin filmbatteries. In some embodiments, a lighting unit may include one or morebattery life indicators. In some embodiments, a lighting unit mayinclude one or more switches 116 that are configured to controloperation of the lighting unit. In some embodiments, a switch 116 may bea push button switch. In some embodiments, a switch 116 may be a touchsensor switch. In some embodiments, a switch 116 may be configured toactivate the lighting unit upon opening and/or removal of a top cap 106associated with device 100. In some embodiments, a switch 116 may beconfigured to deactivate the lighting unit upon closing and/orreplacement of a top cap 106 associated with device 100.

In some embodiments, a lighting unit may be used to outline the top ofone or more sleeves 104. In some embodiments, a lighting unit may beconfigured to illuminate the interior of device 100. In someembodiments, a lighting unit may be configured to illuminate theexterior of device 100

Humidity Control Unit

Device 100 may include a humidity control unit. A humidity control unitmay be configured in numerous ways. A humidity control unit may includenumerous types of components and combinations of components.

In some embodiments, a device 100 may include one or more humiditysensors. Numerous types of humidity sensors may be used within device100. Examples of such humidity sensors include, but are not limited to,hygrometers, electronic humidity sensors, thermohygrometers, and thelike.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or more humidificationpacks. Humidification packs may be configured in numerous ways. Forexample, in some embodiments, a humidification pack may includehydration beads. In some embodiments, device 100 may include ahumidifier. In some embodiments, device 100 may include anelectronically controllable humidifier. In some embodiments, device 100may include an evaporative humidifier. In some embodiments, device 100may include a mechanical humidifier. For example, in some embodiments,device 100 may include a steam humidifier. In some embodiments, device100 may include an impeller humidifier. In some embodiments, device 100may include an ultrasonic humidifier.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include a dehumidifier. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a desiccant dehumidifier. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a condensation based dehumidifier.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or more fans configuredto circulate air within device 100.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include control circuitry configuredto receive information from one or more humidity sensors and thencontrol one or more humidifier packs and/or one or more dehumidifiers inresponse to the received information. Accordingly, in some embodiments,a humidity control unit may include a user interface that allows a userto select a level of humidity at which the interior of a device is to bemaintained.

In some embodiments, a user interface may be a cellular telephone. Insome embodiments, control circuitry may activate one or more humidifiersto increase the humidity within device 100. In some embodiments, controlcircuitry may deactivate one or more humidifiers to decrease and/ormaintain the humidity within device 100. In some embodiments, controlcircuitry may activate one or more dehumidifiers to decrease thehumidity within device 100. In some embodiments, control circuitry maydeactivate one or more dehumidifiers to increase and/or maintain thehumidity within device 100.

In some embodiments, a humidity control unit may include an indicatorthat is configured to indicate the humidity level within device 100. Insome embodiments, the indicator may be analog. In some embodiments, theindicator may be digital. In some embodiments, a humidity control unitmay include an indicator that is configured to indicate the remaininglifetime of one or more humidification packs. For example, in someembodiments, a humidity control unit may be configured to indicate theamount of water remaining in a humidifier. In some embodiments, ahumidity control unit may be configured to indicate the amount of timeremaining before hydration beads need to be replaced. In someembodiments, a humidity control unit may be configured to indicate thestatus of a humidification pack. For example, in some embodiments, ahumidity control unit may be configured to indicate that ahumidification pack is new, 50 percent of lifetime remains, 10 percentof lifetime remains, or that replacement is needed.

In some embodiments, the humidity control unit may include circuitryconfigured to transmit one or more signals that include informationassociated with the humidity level within device 100. In someembodiments, the humidity control unit may include circuitry configuredto transmit one or more signals that include information associated withthe humidity level within device 100 to a user's cellular telephone. Insome embodiments, the humidity control unit may include circuitryconfigured to transmit one or more alert signals that includeinformation associated with the humidity level within device 100. Forexample, in some embodiments, an alert may be sent to a user's cellulartelephone if the humidity within device 100 is too high, too low, or ischanging. In some embodiments, the humidity control unit may includecircuitry configured to transmit one or more alert signals that includeinformation associated with the water level remaining in a humidifier.In some embodiments, the humidity control unit may include circuitryconfigured to transmit one or more alert signals that includeinformation associated with an amount of time remaining before hydrationbeads need to be replaced.

In some embodiments, the humidity control unit may include circuitryconfigured to receive one or more signals from one or more humiditysensors that are external to device 100. In some embodiments, the one ormore signals may be processed to determine the humidity level externalto device 100 and then control the operation of one or more componentsof a humidity control unit to adjust the humidity level within device100 in response to the outside humidity level.

Temperature Control Unit

Device 100 may include a temperature control unit. A temperature controlunit may be configured in numerous ways. A temperature control unit mayinclude numerous types of components and combinations of components. Insome embodiments, device 100 may include one or more temperaturesensors. Numerous types of temperature sensors may be used within device100. Examples of such temperature sensors include, but are not limitedto, thermometers, thermocouples, analog temperature sensors, digitaltemperature sensors, and the like.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include one or more heaters.Numerous types of heaters may be used within device 100. For example, insome embodiments, a heater may be an electric heater. In someembodiments, a heater may be a chemical heater.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include a cooling unit. Numeroustypes of cooling units may be used within device 100. In someembodiments, device 100 may include an air conditioning unit. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a heat exchanger. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a radiator. In some embodiments,device 100 may include a heat sink.

In some embodiments, device 100 may include control circuitry configuredto receive information from one or more temperature sensors and thencontrol one or more heaters and/or cooling units in response to thereceived information. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a temperaturecontrol unit may include a user interface that allows a user to select atemperature at which the interior of device 100 is to be maintained. Insome embodiments, a user interface may be a cellular telephone. In someembodiments, control circuitry may activate one or more heaters toincrease the temperature within device 100. In some embodiments, controlcircuitry may deactivate one or more heaters to decrease and/or maintainthe temperature within device 100. In some embodiments, controlcircuitry may activate one or more cooling units to decrease thetemperature within device 100. In some embodiments, control circuitrymay deactivate one or more cooling units to increase and/or maintain thetemperature within device 100.

In some embodiments, a temperature control unit may include an indicatorthat is configured to indicate the temperature within device 100. Insome embodiments, the indicator may be analog. In some embodiments, theindicator may be digital.

In some embodiments, the temperature control unit may include circuitryconfigured to transmit one or more signals that include informationassociated with the temperature within device 100. In some embodiments,the temperature control unit may include circuitry configured totransmit one or more signals that include information associated withthe temperature within device 100 to a user's cellular telephone. Insome embodiments, the temperature control unit may include circuitryconfigured to transmit one or more alert signals that includeinformation associated with the temperature level within device 100. Forexample, in some embodiments, an alert may be sent to a user's cellulartelephone if the temperature within device 100 is too high, too low, oris changing.

In some embodiments, the temperature control unit may include circuitryconfigured to receive one or more signals from one or more temperaturesensors that are external to device 100. In some embodiments, the one ormore signals may be processed to determine the temperature levelexternal to device 100 and then control the operation of one or morecomponents of a temperature control unit to adjust the temperature levelwithin device 100 in response to the outside temperature level.

Communications Unit

Device 100 may include a communications unit. A communications unit maybe configured in numerous ways. A communications unit may includenumerous types of components and combinations of components. In someembodiments, a communications unit may include one or more transmitters.In some embodiments, a communications unit may include one or morereceivers. In some embodiments, a communications unit may include one ormore processing components. In some embodiments, a communications unitmay include one or more microcomputing devices. Accordingly, in someembodiments, a communications unit may be configured to receive,transmit, and/or process one or more signals.

In some embodiments, a communications unit may receive numerous types ofsignals. Examples of such signals include, but are not limited to,wireless signals, cellular signals, Bluetooth™ signals, analog signals,digital signals, global positioning signals, and the like.

In some embodiments, a communications unit may transmit numerous typesof signals. Examples of such signals include, but are not limited to,wireless signals, cellular signals, Bluetooth™ signals, analog signals,digital signals, global positioning signals and the like.

In some embodiments, a communications unit may interface with one ormore user interfaces. A communications unit may interact with and/orinclude numerous types of user interfaces. Examples of such userinterfaces include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones,touchpads, computers, keyboards, switches, microphones, and the like. Insome embodiments, a communications unit may be configured to receivevoice commands. Accordingly, in some embodiments, functions associatedwith a device may be controlled through use of voice commands.

In some embodiments, a communications unit may be configured to transmitone or more signals indicating the position of device 100. For example,in some embodiments, a communications unit may include a globalpositioning transceiver that may receive coordinates associated with theposition of device 100 and then transmit one or more signals thatinclude the coordinates. In some embodiments, such signals may betransmitted in response to a query.

In some embodiments, a communications unit may be configured todetermine the position of one or more similar devices 100 relative tothe position of device 100. For example, in some embodiments, a device100 may be configured to receive one or more signals that weretransmitted by one or more devices 100 that identify the devices 100 asbeing similar and include positional information associated with the oneor more similar devices 100. In some embodiments, such signals mayinclude a specific code that allows them to be associated with aspecific device 100. In some embodiments, such signals may betransmitted in a specific sequence that allows them to be associatedwith a specific device 100. Accordingly, signals may be transmitted andreceived through use of numerous methods that may be used to identify asimilar device 100. In some embodiments, such signals may be wirelesssignals. In some embodiments, such signals may be Bluetooth™ signals.Accordingly, numerous types of signals may be transmitted and received.

In some embodiments, a communications unit may be configured to transmitone or more signals that include positional information associated withdevice 100 that may be received by one or more similar devices 100. Insome embodiments, such signals may include a specific code that allowsthem to be associated with the device 100. In some embodiments, suchsignals may be transmitted in a specific sequence that allows them to beassociated with the device 100. Accordingly, signals may be transmittedand received through use of numerous methods that may be used toidentify the device 100. In some embodiments, such signals may bewireless signals. In some embodiments, such signals may be Bluetooth™signals. Accordingly, numerous types of signals may be transmitted andreceived.

Locking Mechanism

Device 100 may include a locking mechanism. In some embodiments, alocking mechanism may be configured to control access to the interior ofdevice 100.

A locking mechanism may be configured in numerous ways. For example, insome embodiments, a locking mechanism may be configured to controllablelock a top cap 106 to the main body housing 102 of device 100. In someembodiments, a locking mechanism may be configured to controllably lockbottom cap 108 to the main body housing 102 of device 100.

In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may be configured as acombination lock. In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may beconfigured as a touchpad that accepts a code. In some embodiments, alocking mechanism may be configured as a biometric detector that isconfigured to detect one or more biometric features associated with auser. Examples of such biometric features include, but are not limitedto, fingerprints, retinal eye scans, facial recognition, and the like.

In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may be controlled through useof a remote user interface. For example, in some embodiments, a lockingmechanism may be controlled through use of a cellular telephone.

Materials and Fabrication

Device 100 and the components of device 100 may be constructed ofnumerous types of material and combinations of materials. For example,in some embodiments, device 100 and/or components of device 100 may beconstructed from numerous types of metals and combinations of metals(e.g., steel, aluminum, titanium, metal alloys, and the like), polymers,plastics (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, high-densitypolyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, low-densitypolyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene,polyamides, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate,polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and the like), ceramics,wood (e.g., cedar, oak, rosewood, redwood, and the like), and the like.

In some embodiments, a main body housing 102 may include a wood liningon the interior of the main body housing 102. For example, in someembodiments, a main body housing 102 may include a cedar lining on theinterior of the main body housing 102. In some embodiments, a top cap106 may include a wood lining. For example, in some embodiments, a topcap 106 may include a cedar lining on the interior of the top cap 106such that the cedar lining is oriented toward the interior of a mainbody housing 102 when the top cap 106 is operably coupled to the mainbody housing 102. In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may include awood lining. For example, in some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 mayinclude a cedar lining on the interior of the bottom cap 108 such thatthe cedar lining is oriented toward the interior of a main body housing102 when the bottom cap 108 is operably coupled to the main body housing102 of device 100. In some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may include a woodlining. For example, in some embodiments, a sleeve 104 may include acedar lining on the interior of the sleeve 104.

Device 100 and the components of device 100 may be manufactured throughuse of numerous fabrication methods. Examples of such fabricationmethods include, but are not limited to, machining, casting, molding,printing (e.g., three-dimensional printing), and the like.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of device 100 inwhich embodiments may be implemented. Device 100 may include a main bodyhousing 102. Device 100 is illustrated as including six sleeves 104.Device 100 may include a lift rod 122 (illustrated in an extendedposition). Device 100 may include a lift rod cap 134 that is operablycoupled to lift rod 122. Device 100 is illustrated as including a topplate 132 that is operably coupled to the main body housing 102 andincludes a rod aperture 166 and six sleeve apertures 168. Device 100 mayinclude a switch 116. Device 100 may include an indicator 118. Device100 is illustrated as including a light assembly 150 that outlinessleeve apertures 168.

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an example device 100in which embodiments may be implemented. Device 100 may include a mainbody housing 102. Device 100 is illustrated as including a plurality ofsleeves 104. Device 100 is illustrated as including a top cap 106 and abottom cap 108 operably coupled to the main body housing 102. Device 100may include a support rod 110 (illustrated in a compressed position). Insome embodiments, device 100 may include a humidification packcompartment 112. In some embodiments, device 100 may include a batterycompartment 114. Device 100 may include a lift plate 124 that isoperably coupled to a support rod 110 through a rod bushing 126. Device100 may include a pin 128 that is operably coupled to a support rod 110.Device 100 may include a top plate support 130 that is operably coupledto a top plate 132. Device 100 may include a lift rod cap 134 that isoperably coupled to a support rod 110. Device 100 may include a rodmount plate 136 that is operably coupled to a support rod 110. Device100 may include a bottom cover 138.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an exampledevice 100 in which embodiments may be implemented. Device 100 mayinclude a main body housing 102. Device 100 is illustrated as includingsix sleeves 104 that are operably coupled to a top plate 132 thatincludes six sleeve apertures 168. A cigar 162 is illustrated as beingincluded within a sleeve 104 and resting on the lift plate 124 which isshown in a lowered position. The top plate 132 is operably coupled to atop plate support 130. Device 100 is illustrated as including a top cap106 and a bottom cap 108 that are operably coupled to the main bodyhousing 102. Device 100 may include a support rod 110 (illustrated in acompressed position) that is operably coupled to a lift rod cap 134. Thesupport rod 110 includes a rod support base 120 (not shown) and a liftrod 122 (not shown) in telescoping communication with each other. Device100 may include a lift plate 124 that is operably coupled to a lift rod122 (not shown) through a rod bushing 126 and a plurality of fasteners142. A spring 144 is positioned within the rod bushing 126. Device 100may include a pin 128 that is operably coupled to a support rod 110 anda rod mount plate 136 that is operably coupled to the support rod 110through pin 128. Device 100 may include a bottom cover 138. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a lighter storage compartment 154.

FIG. 4 illustrates an expanded side view of a portion of an exampledevice 100 in which embodiments may be implemented. Device 100 isillustrated as including a top cap 106 that is configured to operablycouple to an upper portion of main body housing 102. In someembodiments, a top cap 106 may operably couple to an upper portion ofmain body housing 102 and form a substantially air-tight seal. In someembodiments, top cap 106 may include one or more bull-nose spring loadedpins (not shown) that are configured to secure the top cap to the mainbody housing 102 of device 100. In some embodiments, device 100 mayinclude a center punch 156 that may be operably coupled to the top cap106. In some embodiments, device 100 may include a center punch cap 140that is configured to operably couple with center punch 156. In someembodiments, device 100 may include a lift rod cap 134 that may beoperably coupled to lift rod 122. Device 100 is illustrated as includingsix sleeves 104. Device 100 may include a rod gusset 146 that isconfigured to encircle lift rod 122. Device 100 may include a top plate132 and a top plate support 130. In some embodiments, top plate 132 andtop plate support 130 may be operably coupled with fasteners 142. Device100 is illustrated as including a lift rod 122 that includes a recessedportion at the lower portion of lift rod 122 that is configured toreceive an upper portion of rod support base 120 and provide fortelescoping action of lift rod 122 relative to rod support base 120. Rodsupport base 120 is illustrated as including a recessed portion at thelower portion of rod support base 120 that is configured to accept a pin128 (not shown).

FIG. 5 illustrates an expanded side view of a portion of an exampledevice 100 in which embodiments may be implemented. Device 100 isillustrated as including a lift rod 122 that includes a recessed portionat the lower portion of lift rod 122 that is configured to receive anupper portion of rod support base 120 and provide for telescoping actionof lift rod 122 relative to rod support base 120. Rod support base 120is illustrated as including a recessed portion at the lower portion ofrod support base 120 that is configured to accept pin 128. Rod supportbase 120 may be operably coupled to rod mount plate 136 through pin 128.In some embodiments rod mount plate 136 may be operably coupled tobottom cover 138 through fasteners 142. Device 100 is illustrated asincluding lift plate 124 and spring 144. Lift plate 124 may be operablycoupled to lift rod 122 through rod bushing 126 and fasteners 142.Device 100 is illustrated as including a bottom cap 108 that isconfigured to operably couple to a lower portion of main body housing102. In some embodiments, a bottom cap 108 may operably couple to alower portion of main body housing 102 and form a substantiallyair-tight seal. In some embodiments, bottom cap 108 may include one ormore bull-nose spring loaded pins (not shown) that are configured tosecure the bottom cap to the main body housing 102 of device 100.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a top cap 106that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Top cap 106 is illustrated as including top cap fasteners 152, alighter 158, and a battery pack 164.

FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of center punch 156 that may be includedin an embodiment of an example device 100 (not shown).

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of center punch 156 that may beincluded in an embodiment of an example device 100 (not shown).

FIG. 7C illustrates a side view of center punch 156 that may be includedin an embodiment of an example device 100 (not shown).

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a center punchcap 140 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100(not shown).

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a center punch156 associated with an embodiment of a center punch cap 140 that may beincluded in an embodiment of an example device 100 (not shown).

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of acenter punch 156 associated with an embodiment of a center punch cap 140that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown).

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a lift rodcap 134 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100(not shown).

FIG. 12A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of asleeve 104 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device100 (not shown).

FIG. 12B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a sleeve 104that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown).

FIG. 12C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of asleeve 104 with a sleeve insert 160 included within the interior spaceof the sleeve 104 that may be included in an embodiment of an exampledevice 100 (not shown).

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an embodiment ofa rod gusset 146 that may be included in an embodiment of an exampledevice 100 (not shown).

FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of a portion of an embodiment of a rodgusset 146 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device100 (not shown).

FIG. 14A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a top plate 132 thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (not shown).Top plate 132 is illustrated as including six sleeve apertures 168 andone rod aperture 166. The rod aperture 166 is illustrated as beingconfigured to allow passage of a lift rod 122 (not shown) that includesone or more transversely mounted dowels 148 (not shown, see e.g., FIG.16C) through the rod aperture 166. Top plate 132 is illustrated asincluding four fasteners 142 that may be utilized to operably couple topplate 132 to a top plate support 130 (not shown).

FIG. 14B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a top plate132 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Top plate 132 is illustrated as including six sleeve apertures168 and one rod aperture 166. The rod aperture 166 is illustrated asbeing configured to allow passage of a lift rod 122 (not shown) thatincludes one or more transversely mounted dowels 148 (not shown, seee.g., FIG. 16C) through the rod aperture 166. Top plate 132 isillustrated as including four fastener apertures 170 that may each beconfigured to receive a fastener 142 (not shown).

FIG. 15A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a top plate support130 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Top plate support 130 is illustrated as including six sleeveapertures 168 and one rod aperture 166. The rod aperture 166 isillustrated as being configured to allow passage of a lift rod 122 (notshown) through the rod aperture 166. Top plate support 133 isillustrated as including four fastener apertures 170 that each may beconfigured to receive a fastener 142 (not shown).

FIG. 15B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a top platesupport 130 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device100 (not shown). Top plate support 130 is illustrated as including sixsleeve apertures 168 and one rod aperture 166. The rod aperture 166 isillustrated as being configured to allow passage of a lift rod 122 (notshown) through the rod aperture 166. Top plate support 130 isillustrated as including four fastener apertures 170 that each may beconfigured to receive a fastener 142 (not shown).

FIG. 16A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of alift rod 122 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device100 (not shown). Lift rod 122 is illustrated as including threetransverse holes 172. Lift rod 122 is illustrated as including a liftrod recess 174 positioned at the lower portion of lift rod 122.

FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a lift rod122 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Lift rod 122 is illustrated as including three transverse holes172. Lift rod 122 is illustrated as including a lift rod recess 174positioned at the lower portion of lift rod 122.

FIG. 16C illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of alift rod 122 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device100 (not shown). Lift rod 122 is illustrated as including threetransverse holes 172. One of the transverse holes is illustrated asincluding an operably coupled dowel 148. Lift rod 122 is illustrated asincluding a lift rod recess 174 positioned at the lower portion of liftrod 122.

FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a main bodyhousing 102 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device100 (not shown). Main body housing 102 is illustrated as having an openupper portion.

FIG. 17B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a main bodyhousing 102 that is associated with a top cap 106 and a bottom cap 108that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown).

FIG. 18 A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of arod support base 120 that may be included in an embodiment of an exampledevice 100 (not shown). Rod support base is illustrated as including arod support base recess 176 that is configured to receive a pin 128 (notshown).

FIG. 18B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rodsupport base 120 that may be included in an embodiment of an exampledevice 100 (not shown). Rod support base is illustrated as including arod support base recess 176 that is configured to receive a pin 128 (notshown).

FIG. 19A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a lift plate 124that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Lift plate 124 is illustrated as including a rod aperture 166configured to allow free passage of a support rod 110 (not shown)through the rod aperture 166. Lift plate 124 is also illustrated asincluding four fasteners 142 that, in some embodiments, may be used tooperably couple lift plate 124 to a lift rod 122 (not shown) through arod bushing 126 (not shown). Lift plate 124 is illustrated as includingoptional perforations.

FIG. 19B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a lift plate124 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Lift plate 124 is illustrated as including a rod aperture 166configured to allow free passage of a support rod 110 (not shown)through the rod aperture 166. Lift plate 124 is also illustrated asincluding four fasteners 142 that, in some embodiments, may be used tooperably couple lift plate 124 to a lift rod 122 (not shown) through arod bushing 126 (not shown). Lift plate 124 is illustrated as includingoptional perforations.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rod bushing126 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Rod bushing 126 is illustrated as including four fastenerapertures 170 in the bushing disk portion 180 of the rod bushing 126. Insome embodiments, the fastener apertures 170 may be configured to allowfasteners 142 (not shown) to operably couple a rod bushing 126 to a liftplate 124 (not shown). Rod bushing 126 is illustrated as including atubular upper portion that includes a bushing recess 178 disposedtherein configured to receive a lower portion of a lift rod 122 (notshown) to provide for operable coupling of the lift rod 122 (not shown)with the rod bushing 126. In some embodiments, a spring 144 (not shown)may be contained within the bushing recess 178.

FIG. 21A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a dowel 148 thatmay be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (not shown).

FIG. 21B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a dowel 148that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown).

FIG. 22A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a rod mount plate136 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Rod mount plate 136 is illustrated as including four fasteners142 that may be used to operably couple rod mount plate 136 to bottomcover 138 (not shown). Rod mount plate 136 is illustrated as including apin port 182 that may be used to operably couple pin 128 (not shown) torod mount plate 136 and to rod support base 120 (not shown).

FIG. 22B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a rod mountplate 136 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100(not shown). Rod mount plate 136 is illustrated as including fourfasteners 142 that may be used to operably couple rod mount plate 136 tobottom cover 138 (not shown). Rod mount plate 136 is illustrated asincluding a pin port 182 that may be used to operably couple pin 128(not shown) to rod mount plate 136 and to rod support base 120 (notshown).

FIG. 23A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a bottom cover 138that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Bottom cover 138 is illustrated as including two fasteners 142and four fastener apertures 170. Bottom cover 138 is also illustrated asbeing optionally perforated.

FIG. 23B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottomcover 138 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100(not shown). Bottom cover 138 is illustrated as including two fasteners142 and four fastener apertures 170. Bottom cover 138 is alsoillustrated as being optionally perforated.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom cap108 that may be included in an embodiment of an example device 100 (notshown). Bottom cap 108 is illustrated as including a lighter 158 and ahumidification pack compartment 112.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, otheraspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes ofillustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scopeand spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems ofthe present disclosure may be implemented in many manners and as suchare not to be limited by the foregoing exemplary embodiments andexamples. In this regard, any number of the features of the differentembodiments described herein may be combined into single or multipleembodiments, and alternate embodiments having fewer than, or more than,all of the features described herein are possible. Functionality mayalso be, in whole or in part, distributed among multiple components, inmanners now known or to become known. Thus, a myriad of combinations arepossible in achieving the functions, features, interfaces andpreferences described herein. Moreover, the scope of the presentdisclosure covers conventionally known manners for carrying out thedescribed features and functions and interfaces, as well as thosevariations and modifications that may be made to the componentsdescribed herein as would be understood by those skilled in the art nowand hereafter.

While various embodiments have been described for purposes of thisdisclosure, such embodiments should not be deemed to limit the teachingof this disclosure to those embodiments. Various changes andmodifications may be made to the elements and operations described aboveto obtain a result that remains within the scope of this disclosure.

In some instances, one or more components may be referred to herein as“configured to,” “configured by,” “configurable to,” “operable/operativeto,” “adapted/adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable/conformed to,” etc.Those skilled in the art will recognize that such terms (e.g.“configured to”) generally encompass active-state components and/orinactive-state components and/or standby-state components, unlesscontext requires otherwise.

All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein areincorporated herein by reference. The foregoing specification has beendescribed in relation to certain embodiments thereof, and many detailshave been set forth for purposes of illustration, however, it will beapparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is susceptibleto additional embodiments and that certain of the details describedherein may be varied considerably without departing from the basicprinciples of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device comprising: a main body housingincluding a hollow interior portion, an upper portion, a lower portion,and an open upper end; at least one top plate operably coupled to themain body housing within the upper hollow interior portion of the mainbody housing, the at least one top plate including at least one sleeveaperture disposed therein configured to accept at least one sleeve andat least one rod aperture disposed therein configured for passage of atleast one lift rod therethrough; at least one sleeve operably coupled tothe top plate; at least one lift plate contained within the hollowinterior portion of the main body housing and configured to be moveablewithin the hollow interior portion of the main body housing, the atleast one lift plate including at least one rod aperture disposedtherein configured for passage of at least one rod support basetherethrough; and at least one support rod assembly including a rodsupport base and a lift rod in extendible connection with the rodsupport base positioned within the hollow portion of the main bodyhousing, the rod support base operably coupled to the lower portion ofthe main body housing and the at least one lift rod operably coupled tothe at least one moveable lift plate.
 2. The device of claim 1, whereinthe main body housing comprises: a cylindrical main body housing.
 3. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the main body housing comprises: a main bodyhousing including an open lower end.
 4. The device of claim 1, whereinthe at least one top plate comprises: at least one top plate thatincludes at least six sleeve apertures disposed therein.
 5. The deviceof claim 1, wherein the at least one sleeve comprises: at least onesleeve that includes a lower portion configured to pass through the atleast one sleeve aperture and a flanged upper portion configured tooperably couple the at least one sleeve to the top plate.
 6. The deviceof claim 1, wherein the at least one sleeve comprises: at least onesleeve having an inside diameter between about two centimeters and aboutfour centimeters.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least onelift plate comprises: at least one lift plate operably coupled to the atleast one lift rod through a rod bushing.
 8. The device of claim 1,wherein the at least one support rod assembly including a rod supportbase and a lift rod in extendible connection with the rod support basecomprises: at least one spring configured to extend the lift rod fromthe rod support base.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least onesupport rod assembly including a rod support base and a lift rod inextendible connection with the rod support base comprises: a rod supportbase and a lift rod operably coupled to at least one motor that isconfigured to extend the lift rod from the rod support base.
 10. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising: at least one rod mount plateoperably coupled within the hollow lower portion of the main bodyhousing and operably coupled to the at least one rod support base. 11.The device of claim 1, further comprising: at least one top capconfigured to operably couple with the upper portion of the main bodyhousing and substantially seal the open upper end of the main bodyhousing.
 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the at least one top capcomprises: at least one center punch.
 13. The device of claim 3, furthercomprising: at least one bottom cap configured to operably couple withthe lower portion of the main body housing and substantially seal theopen lower end of the main body housing.
 14. The device of claim 13,wherein the bottom cap comprises: at least one bottom cap including alighter storage compartment.
 15. The device of claim 13, wherein thebottom cap comprises: at least one bottom cap including a humidificationpack compartment.
 16. The device of claim 13, wherein the bottom capcomprises: at least one battery pack.
 17. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising: at least one lighting unit.
 18. The device of claim 1,further comprising: at least one communications unit.
 19. An devicecomprising: a main body housing including a hollow interior portion, anupper portion, a lower portion, an open upper end, and an open lowerend; at least one top plate operably coupled to the main body housingwithin the upper hollow interior portion of the main body housing, theat least one top plate including at least one sleeve aperture disposedtherein configured to accept at least one sleeve and at least one rodaperture disposed therein configured for passage of at least one liftrod therethrough; at least one sleeve that includes a lower portionconfigured to pass through the at least one sleeve aperture and aflanged upper portion configured to operably couple the at least onesleeve to the top plate; at least one lift plate contained within thehollow interior portion of the main body housing and configured to bemoveable within the hollow interior portion of the main body housing,the at least one lift plate including at least one rod aperture disposedtherein configured for passage of at least one rod support basetherethrough; at least one rod mount plate operably coupled to the mainbody housing within the hollow lower portion of the main body housing;at least one support rod assembly including a rod support base and alift rod in extendible connection with the rod support base positionedwithin the hollow portion of the main body housing, the rod support baseoperably coupled to the at least one rod mount plate and the at leastone lift rod operably coupled to the at least one moveable lift plate;at least one top cap configured to operably couple with the upperportion of the main body housing and substantially seal the open upperend of the main body housing; and at least one bottom cap configured tooperably couple with the lower portion of the main body housing andsubstantially seal the open lower end of the main body housing.
 20. Andevice comprising: a main body housing including a hollow interiorportion, an upper portion, a lower portion, an open upper end, and anopen lower end; at least one top plate operably coupled to the main bodyhousing within the upper hollow interior portion of the main bodyhousing, the at least one top plate including at least one sleeveaperture disposed therein configured to accept at least one sleeve andat least one rod aperture disposed therein configured for passage of atleast one lift rod therethrough; at least one sleeve that includes alower portion configured to pass through the at least one sleeveaperture and a flanged upper portion configured to operably couple theat least one sleeve to the top plate; at least one lift plate containedwithin the hollow interior portion of the main body housing andconfigured to be moveable within the hollow interior portion of the mainbody housing, the at least one lift plate including at least one rodaperture disposed therein configured for passage of at least one rodsupport base therethrough; at least one rod mount plate operably coupledto the main body housing within the hollow lower portion of the mainbody housing; at least one support rod assembly including a rod supportbase and a lift rod in extendible connection with the rod support basepositioned within the hollow portion of the main body housing, the rodsupport base operably coupled to the at least one rod mount plate andthe at least one lift rod operably coupled to the at least one moveablelift plate; at least one top cap configured to operably couple with theupper portion of the main body housing and substantially seal the openupper end of the main body housing; at least one bottom cap configuredto operably couple with the lower portion of the main body housing andsubstantially seal the open lower end of the main body housing; and atleast locking mechanism configured to control access to the interiorportion of the main body housing.